Clematis Clematis × diversifolia
ABOUT
Clematis × diversifolia, commonly known as clematis, is a strikingly beautiful plant with a diverse set of foliage and flowering characteristics. Traditionally, clematis plants are known for their climbing habit and the way they can drape over structures or other plants with their twining stems. The leaves of clematis usually compose of multiple leaflets, often with a toothed or lobed margin, creating a textured effect that adds depth and interest to the foliage. These leaflets are often bright to deep green, creating a lush backdrop for the plant's most spectacular feature: its flowers. The blossoms of clematis are particularly admired for their size and vivid colors. They can be quite large and come in an array of colors such as purple, blue, pink, red, or white. Each flower typically has four to eight petal-like sepals that are capable of exhibiting a variety of hues and can sometimes have a gradient or two-toned appearance. The centers often display a contrasting whorl of stamen, creating a striking contrast to the sepals. Clematis flowers are known to bloom in a variety of shapes as well, from the classic flat, open-faced appearance to bell- or star-shaped configurations. This incredible variation can provide a long-lasting display of blooms throughout the growing season. They have a presence that can add both elegance and a wild, natural charm to any garden space. After flowering, many clematis produce fluffy, plume-like seed heads that add a textural contrast to the garden and extend the plant's visual interest even after the blooming period has concluded. This added feature allows them to retain a decorative aspect well into the colder months. Known for their decorative versatility, these plants are beloved by gardeners looking to create vertical interest or to cover up fences, arbors, or walls with a cascade of floral beauty. The combination of the clematis's robust flowering habit and the lush, sometimes almost leathery, foliage makes this plant a favorite for creating eye-catching spots in both small and large-scale garden designs.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Ranunculaceae.
Synonyms
Integrifolia Hybrid Clematis.
Common names
Clematis × diversifolia.
ToxicityTo humans
Clematis, often including Clematis × diversifolia, contains toxic compounds that can be harmful if ingested. The plant contains irritants in the form of glycosides known as ranunculin, which when ingested or comes into contact with the mucous membranes can cause internal irritations. Symptoms of clematis poisoning may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and salivation. In severe cases, ingestion may result in mouth ulcers or damage to the digestive tract. Handling the plant without gloves can also cause skin irritations, so it is advisable to exercise caution when dealing with this plant.
To pets
Similar to its effects on humans, Clematis is also toxic to pets. The ingestion of the plant by animals such as cats and dogs can cause similar symptoms to those in humans, including drooling, vomiting, and diarrhea. In some cases, pets may experience difficulty in breathing or an increased heart rate. The severity of the symptoms often depends on the amount of the plant ingested. It is critical to prevent pets from chewing on or ingesting any part of clematis, as it can have harmful effects. If you suspect your pet has ingested clematis, it is important to contact a veterinarian immediately.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Blue
Height
3 feet (0.91 meters)
Spread
3 feet (0.91 meters)
Plant type
Climber
Hardiness zones
4
Native area
China
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Adds visual interest to gardens with its showy flowers and lush foliage.
- Versatility in Landscaping: Can be used for ground cover, climbing trellises, or as a garden border.
- Pollinator Attraction: Flowers attract beneficial pollinators like bees and butterflies.
- Seasonal Interest: Offers a changing appearance throughout the seasons with flowers in summer and potential fall leaf color.
- Privacy Screen: When grown on structures, it can provide privacy and reduce noise in outdoor spaces.
- Shade Provider: Can create shaded areas when grown over arbors or pergolas.
- Soil Erosion Control: Developed root system helps stabilize soil on slopes or in garden beds.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Clematis diversifolia, commonly known as 'variable-leaf clematis', can be utilized in basketry, where its flexible stems are woven into decorative or functional baskets.
- The plant's vines may be used in crafting natural jewelry, such as bracelets and necklaces, after being treated and dried.
- Due to its climbing nature, variable-leaf clematis can be employed as a natural screen or privacy barrier when grown on trellises in a garden.
- The ornamental value of variable-leaf clematis makes it suitable for beautification projects in public spaces like parks or along roadways.
- Variable-leaf clematis can be integrated into educational programs to teach about pollinator-friendly practices and the importance of native flora.
- The vines of variable-leaf clematis can be used as a natural binding material in the construction of small garden structures or supports for other plants.
- When dried, the vines can serve as kindling or as a component in creating natural firestarters for camping or outdoor activities.
- Variable-leaf clematis can be used in artistic installations or set designs due to its distinctive flowers and sprawling growth habit.
- The seeds of variable-leaf clematis, with their feathery tails, are sometimes used in dried floral arrangements for their unique texture and visual interest.
- The plant can be used in combination with other species to create habitat diversity in wildlife gardens, encouraging beneficial insects and birds.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiClematis is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityClematis is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Mental Agility: Clematis is often associated with cleverness and quick thinking due to its climbing nature, finding routes and supports to grow and flourish.
- Creative Expression: The diverse and intricate flowers of the Integrifolia Clematis symbolize the beauty of artistic endeavors and the flourishing of creative ideas.
- Spiritual Journey: The way Clematis climbs towards the light can represent one's spiritual journey toward enlightenment or personal growth.
- Beauty and Artistry: With its stunning flowers, the Integrifolia Clematis often symbolizes natural beauty and the appreciation of aesthetic qualities.
WaterFor the Clematis 'Integrifolia', it is important to provide consistent moisture especially during the growing season. Water the plant thoroughly once a week, ensuring that the soil is well-moistened but not waterlogged. Approximately one gallon of water per week should suffice, but this can vary depending on climate conditions – in hotter climates or during dry spells, more frequent watering may be necessary. During winter, reduce watering to prevent the plant from sitting in excessively wet soil which can lead to root rot.
LightThe Clematis 'Integrifolia' thrives best in a location with full sun to partial shade. An ideal spot would provide the plant with at least four hours of direct sunlight daily, though some afternoon shade can help protect the plant from intense heat. However, too much shade can lead to fewer flowers and a leggy growth habit.
TemperatureClematis 'Integrifolia' prefers a temperate climate with temperatures ranging between 50°F and 75°F. The plant can tolerate temperatures down to about 20°F but may need protection from severe cold. Ideally, it should not be exposed to temperatures above 85°F for prolonged periods, as extreme heat can stress the plant.
PruningPruning Clematis 'Integrifolia' is essential to maintain its shape and promote vigorous flowering. It is best to prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove any dead or weak stems, and cut back the plant to strong buds to encourage new growth. This variety often benefits from annual pruning, cutting back the stems to about a foot above ground level.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe integrifolia Group clematis thrives in well-draining, moisture-retentive soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5. A mix of loam, peat, and well-rotted compost or manure promotes healthy growth.
RepottingThe integrifolia Group clematis should be repotted every 2 to 3 years to refresh the soil and accommodate root growth.
Humidity & MistingThe integrifolia Group clematis prefers moderate humidity but adapts to average garden conditions; avoid overly dry air.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place integrifolia Group clematis near a sunny window and ensure support for climbing.
Outdoor
Provide integrifolia Group clematis with sun, partial shade, and a structure to climb on.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
Life cycleClematis 'Hendryetta' starts its life cycle as a seed, which germinates to produce a small radicle that will develop into the primary root. After root development, a shoot emerges and grows into a young vine with leaves; this stage is known as the juvenile phase. As the plant matures, it transitions to the adult vegetative phase, where it produces a robust system of stems and leaves and becomes a vigorous climber, using its leaf stalks to twist around structures for support. Upon reaching maturity, the plant enters the reproductive stage, producing numerous flowers throughout the summer, which are usually blue or violet in color. After pollination, seeds are produced and dispersed, completing the cycle; however, Clematis 'Hendryetta' can also be propagated vegetatively through cuttings, a common practice for cultivation. Over time, the plant can enter a stage of senescence, with reduced vigor and flowering, but with proper care, it may continue to grow and bloom for many years.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: The most popular method of propagating Clematis × diversifolia, commonly known as the Clematis, is through softwood cuttings. This process is typically carried out in late spring when the plant is actively growing. To propagate by softwood cuttings, a gardener would take cuttings of about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) from new growth that is not yet firm. The leaves on the lower half of the cutting should be removed, and the cut end can be dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root development. The cutting is then planted in a well-draining soil mix and kept under high humidity conditions until roots develop, which usually takes a few weeks to a couple of months. It's important to maintain consistent moisture and to avoid direct sunlight during this rooting period to ensure successful propagation.
